The Iowa Genealogical Society is active in promoting family history, education, and the preservation of records vital in the search for your ancestors. Take a moment to browse our website and discover what IGS can offer…

Weather note: If the Des Moines Public Schools close due to weather, the IGS Library is also closed.

IGS Library

Extensive Library Facility

Our state-of-the-art facility integrates technology with traditional research. Over 22,000 volumes, 10,000 microforms, Wi-fi Internet access and more make the IGS Library the premiere family history resource facility in Iowa.   Read more >>

Education

Education and Outreach

Whether you are a seasoned  researcher or just beginning your family history journey, IGS provides a wide array of educational opportunities designed to enhance your genealogical experience. Classes, special interest groups, conferences and  publications provide the tools you need to discover your family’s unique heritage.  Read more >>

Library Assistance

Help When You Need It

Knowledgeable library staff and volunteers are the heart and strength of our Society. Offering assistance at the Library, via telephone, mail or email, our volunteers can help you break down those stubborn brick walls. Read more >>

Did you know…

… The IGS Library holdings include many published and non-published family genealogies compiled throughout the years. Cataloged under 929.2 in the Dewey System, you might find some treasures … Read more


Latest News

Lives & Times Series: Prohibition

[ June 6, 2012; 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. June 13, 2012; 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. June 20, 2012; 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. June 27, 2012; 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. ]

Phil Parks will present a four part series of lectures on Prohibition.
Location: IGS, 628 E Grand, Des Moines, Iowa, Wednesdays in June at 7 p.m.

The 18th amendment to the U.S. Constitution forbid the “…manufacture, sale, or transportation of intoxicating liquors within, the importation thereof into, or the exportation thereof from the United States…” [...]

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Items Needed for Silent Auction

IGS is planning to hold a silent auction at the Spring Technology Conference, April 14, 2012. Do you have items you’d be willing to donate?
Suggestions: quilts, genealogy supplies, Longaberger baskets, crystal, gift certificates for hotels, restaurants, collectibles, anything new or used, (but, please, no “junk”).
Items may be brought to IGS anytime before the [...]

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IGS Welcomes New Publicity Chair

IGS is pleased to welcome  a new volunteer and member who has stepped forward to work as Publicity Chairperson and on the grant writing committee. With over twenty years experience in non-profit and service industries, Kimberly Carr Irvin brings enthusiasm, experience with publicity, grant writing, and contacts with grantors. Welcome to the team, Kim!

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